Q: I'm hoping you can help me. My niece is a big fan of the BBC television show "Doctor Who." I want to get her one of the coffee mugs with the image of the TARDIS that disappears when you add hot coffee to the cup. I've seen them online, but wondered if they were available locally? Thank you for your assistance. — C. Harris, Atlanta
A: For those unfamiliar with the British science fiction “Doctor Who” series, TARDIS refers to the blue police box — think phone booth — that doubles as the Doctor’s time-traveling space craft. Add hot liquid, and the heat-sensitive mug allows the TARDIS to disappear from the city streets on one side of the mug and reappear to a galaxy scene on the other side. You’ll find the 12-ounce mugs for $10.93 each at Richard’s Variety, 2347 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, 404-237-1412.
Q: I wanted to know where to find organic and fresh produce markets near Decatur. Thank you. — Ajuania White, email
A: You have several terrific outdoor farmers markets nearby that offer organic produce, dairy items, local meats, jams, baked goods and hand-made crafts. Decatur Farmers Market, www.decaturfarmersmarket.com, sets up on Wednesdays from 4 to 7 p.m. at the corner of Commerce Drive and Church Street, behind Bank of America. On Saturday mornings, it opens from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the corner of East Trinity Place and North McDonough Street, the same block as Decatur High School. Slightly outside of Decatur, you'll find East Lake Farmers Market, www.elfmarket.org, each Saturday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It's located at 2343 Hosea L. Williams Drive, Atlanta, 404-428-8017. A stone's throw from Decatur, each Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m., is the Morningside Farmers Market, www.morningsidemarket.com, 1393 N. Highland Ave., Atlanta. This market is certified organic and has been serving locals for nearly two decades. Note that these farmers markets offer plenty of special events that include sales, chef demonstrations and cook-offs, so be sure to check the websites to get specific information for each market.
Q: As a child, I had a jigsaw puzzle of the United States, with each state its own individual puzzle piece. It was a great way for children and adults to learn the shapes and locations of the states. I currently have a jigsaw puzzle of the U.S., but all of the states run together with indistinct shapes. It's nowhere near as educational or as much fun to do. Despite much effort, I have been unable to find a jigsaw puzzle like my original. Can you please help? Thank you. — Beverly Harris, Decatur
A: It seems that it’s much easier to find wooden puzzles that fit your specific needs than cardboard versions. However, you’ll find Milton Bradley map of the United States 84-piece jigsaw puzzle at Toys R Us, 4033 LaVista Road, Tucker, 770-938-4321. Each piece of this puzzle is cut in the shape of the states, and it sells for $6.99.
Q: I bought Kroger Butter Salt for years. I cannot find it or a suitable replacement. Is it available anywhere? Thank you. — Janet Walker, Milner
A: Janet, I have nothing but good news for you. While Kroger Butter Salt has been unavailable for some time, it’s going to make a comeback in a few months, according to a source at Kroger. In the meantime, you might check out a similar product called Kernel Season’s butter seasoning in the popcorn section of Kroger, 100 Spalding St., Griffin, 770-228-0457. A 2.85-ounce shaker is priced at $2.49.
